Why this solo episode almost didn't happen

In this special solo episode of the Dad Edge Podcast, I take a moment to reflect on the power of gratitude, especially as we approach Thanksgiving. What started out as a funny story about a failed attempt to record with my nine-year-old quickly turned into a heartfelt message for the men who make this podcast possible. I open up about the lessons I've learned over the past 10 years of podcasting, leading the Dad Edge movement, and the importance of appreciating life's simplest blessings—even when the world feels chaotic.

Whether you're navigating challenging family dynamics over the holidays or simply want to deepen your connection with those you love, this episode is packed with encouragement and reminders about what truly matters.

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:22] – Why this solo episode almost didn't happen

[2:38] – Reflections on Thanksgiving and what it represents

[3:55] – How simple gratitude (like working fingers and toes) shifts perspective

[4:56] – The Hagner family Thanksgiving tradition of spoken gratitude

[5:35] – The importance of setting healthy boundaries around alcohol

[6:17] – A hilarious and humbling personal story from a past holiday

[7:37] – Deep gratitude to the Dad Edge community and listeners

[9:51] – Shout-out to men in the Alliance, Boardroom, and 1-on-1 coaching

[11:39] – Celebrating Wade Hendry as First Form Dad Edge Dad of the Month

[14:29] – How First Form's company culture mirrors our values

[15:20] – Where to find full show notes and resources for this episode

1. Gratitude Doesn't Require Perfection: Even in chaotic or stressful family situations, choosing to focus on small, simple blessings—like health or a working car—can reframe your entire experience.
2. Holiday Traditions Can Be Powerful Tools: Larry's family tradition of expressing specific gratitude around the Thanksgiving table serves as a model for meaningful connection, not just with family but with intention.
3. Guard Your Energy and Presence: The episode includes a candid and humorous warning about overindulging in alcohol during the holidays—a reminder that one night can become a story you regret for decades.
4. Celebrate Your Journey, Even If It's Imperfect: Larry shares how the Dad Edge Podcast began as a passion project and evolved into a global movement—proof that you don't have to have it all figured out to make an impact.
5. The Community Is What Makes This Possible: From listeners to Alliance members to coaching clients, this episode is a heartfelt "thank you" to the men doing life together, growing, contributing, and showing up with courage.

• Full episode details: https://thedadedge.com/1406

• Download "25 Questions to Help You Connect with Your Kids": https://thedadedge.com/25questions

• Shop First Form and support the podcast: https://1stphorm.com/dadedge

• Podcast Shownotes: thedadedge.com/1406

If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with another father. Let's keep building this community of intentional men who lead and love well.

Live legendary.